Is Venezuela’s Future in Trump’s Hands? Opposition Leader Makes Shocking Move for a Nobel Prize!

WASHINGTON — In an unexpected twist of fate, former President Donald Trump finds himself on the brink of a unique opportunity to claim the Nobel Peace Prize gold medal, despite losing out on the prestigious award itself for 2025. The award’s recipient, Venezuelan opposition figure María Corina Machado, is scheduled to visit the White House this Thursday, sparking speculation that she may present the medal to Trump as a gesture of gratitude for the U.S. military operation that ousted Venezuela’s long-standing dictator, Nicolás Maduro.

Machado, recognized by the Nobel committee last year for her relentless pursuit of democratic rights in Venezuela, has faced significant challenges, including going into hiding due to her political stance. The Nobel Peace Prize awarded to her not only symbolizes her fight for democracy but also highlights the ongoing struggle of the Venezuelan populace against repressive governance.

After a U.S. strike on January 3 aimed at deposing Maduro, Machado publicly asserted her candidacy for leadership in Venezuela, citing the electoral support her coalition received during the country’s 2024 elections. However, the Trump administration has not embraced her as a leader, instead opting to collaborate with remnants of Maduro’s regime, particularly supporting Maduro's vice president, Delcy Rodríguez, in managing the country’s affairs. Following the strike, Trump referred to Machado as a "very nice woman" but criticized her lack of influence within Venezuela, a sentiment echoed by a senior White House official who characterized Machado's political limitations.

During an informal briefing with reporters, Trump expressed that he had spoken with Rodríguez and posited her as a "terrific person," reinforcing the administration’s current alignment with her leadership over Machado's ambitions. Machado’s forthcoming visit is regarded as a courtesy extended by Trump, who remains focused on practical governance through the existing Venezuelan leadership.

Despite their differing goals, both Trump and Machado find themselves entwined in a web of mutual interests. Machado is eager for a democratic transition in Venezuela, which hinges on Trump’s influence and support. Meanwhile, Trump is keen on receiving recognition for what he claims are his successful peacemaking efforts around the globe. A White House spokeswoman, Anna Kelly, asserted, “President Trump deserves the Nobel Peace Prize many times over,” underscoring his belief in his contributions to resolving conflicts.

The dynamics surrounding Machado’s visit become even more intriguing when considering the Nobel Prize’s rules. The Norwegian Nobel Institute has made it clear that the prize cannot be shared or transferred; however, Machado dedicated her award to Trump, acknowledging his support for her democratic movement. In a recent interview with Fox News, Machado indicated that while she hadn’t yet offered her award to Trump, she believed the prize truly belonged to the Venezuelan people and that many would want to share it with him.

A communications adviser to Machado declined to comment on the possibility of her presenting the award to Trump during their meeting. Should she decide to do so, the question remains: would Trump accept? Historically, he has demonstrated a penchant for embracing accolades, and according to a senior White House official, “If she wants to gift him something, he’s not one to refuse a gift.”

Former White House national security adviser Robert O’Brien commented that if Machado offered the prize, it would signify good faith and gratitude for Trump’s actions in Venezuela. Trump’s frustrations over not receiving a Nobel Prize of his own have been vocal, calling it an “embarrassment” for Norway.

As the 2026 Nobel Prize nominations unfold, Trump has received endorsements from various world leaders and American lawmakers. The decision will be made by a five-person committee appointed by Norway’s parliament, with results expected in October. However, experts like Marc Nathanson, former ambassador to Norway, suggested that Trump’s chances may be dim due to his past controversial statements and actions, including threats to acquire Greenland.

As this intriguing narrative develops, we are left to ponder the implications of Machado’s potential gesture. Would Trump follow the expected decorum and graciously decline a shared honor, or would he seize the opportunity to showcase an award he feels he deserves? History suggests the latter is more likely. As Newt Gingrich, former House Speaker, noted, “I suspect she will offer it to him, and I suspect he’ll put it somewhere in the Oval Office.”

Ultimately, whether Machado offers her Nobel Peace Prize to Trump and how he responds could serve as a defining moment in a relationship marked by political intrigue, ambition, and the ever-evolving landscape of Venezuelan governance.